Attending networking events should be a priority in order to develop and benefit your business. There are many different types of networking events to attend and identifying the right ones to go to is important so you can get the best out of them.  

We’re going to discuss the beneficial factors of attending networking events so you can see how much they could do for you and your business. 

1. New contacts and referrals 

The main benefit to networking is getting to meet protentional new clients and gain more contacts and referrals which you can later follow up. Networking can help you seek new opportunities, new business plans and expand your business opportunities. 

2. Visibility 

You will be putting a face to your business and getting your business known. Attending networking events helps you build true connections. You can meet the right people – people who are also there to gain business and won’t mind having a quick natter with you about what you both do. 

3. Networking events increase fresh thinking and inspiration 

When attending a networking event, you might meet many like-minded business owners. People who have different stories of how they came to be a business owner and the journey that took them to where they are now. Often, a fresh perspective can be discovered as a result of feedback from others and by taking a more distanced, objective approach. This also ties-in with building up those connections. 

At some networking events, they have guest speakers. Some of these can be very motivating and give you the tips and confidence you need. 

4. Marketing opportunities 

You have the opportunity to discuss, face-to-face, what products and services your business offers to your ideal target audience. It also gives you a valuable opportunity to carry out some market research and learn more about your target audience in a live setting. 

5. A chance to check out competitors 

There is a very high chance you will meet someone who does what you do. This is your chance to see how your business could be different. What makes you better in comparison to them? How do they market their business to get on that level and what strategies do they use to bring in clients/customers? Seek out their weaknesses and strengths. There’s no harm in making their weaknesses your strong points. 

 Networking events all held throughout the year and here at SBF Consultancy we do it very often in order to get more leads and connect with other business owners.  Click here to have a look at some up-coming networking events near you.

Click here to read our other blogs for more tips and business tricks!